Why You Need Your Pump

• The size of the pool
• How often the pool is being used
• How much debris your pool collects/if the pool is regularly covered

Calculating Your Pump’s Running Time

Other Factors to Consider

About All Seasons Pools

The post Pool School: How Often Should a Pool Pump Run in the Summer? appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Remove the Pool Cover

Check Your Water Levels

Take Care of the Equipment

• The filter
• The heater
• Lights
• Automation systems

Run Your Pump

About All Seasons Pools

The post Swimming Pool Maintenance Tips to Get Ready for Spring appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Follow Proper Pool Care Procedures

• Make sure the water is balanced.
• Check your skimmer and pump baskets. Clean them if necessary.
• If the pool won’t be in use, remove all unnecessary equipment from the pool.
• If snow is in the forecast, place a tarp over your equipment. It should be high enough for you to place a drop light beneath it (the light will add warmth), though be sure the drop light is placed far away from any plastic components, pipes, and combustible material.

For Pools That Are Still Running During a Freeze

For Pools That Aren’t Running or Lose Power During a Freeze

What to Do When Warm Weather Returns

About All Seasons Pools

The post Maintaining Your Pool After Freezing Conditions appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Orlando Pool Maintenance: Skimming

Clean Your Filter

Maintain the Pressure Gauge

Maintaining Gaskets and O-Rings

• Filter head
• Chlorinator
• Filter valve
• Skimmer
• Various fittings and unions

Chlorine Levels

About All Seasons Pools

The post How Proper Pool Maintenance Can Protect My Pool in Orlando appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Swimming Pool Water Chemistry: pH Balance

pH is the major factor you should keep balanced when maintaining your swimming pool water chemistry. pH refers to the level of acidity in your water, and comes from the use of chemicals to keep it balanced and free from contaminants and algae growth. You want your pH to remain between 7.4 to 7.6 at all times to avoid burning eyes and to allow for free chlorine use.

Swimming Pool Alkalinity

Closely connected to pH, the alkalinity is the amount of base, or hydrogen ions, in your water. It also refers to the ability of your water to contain and reduce the loss of hydrogen. Keeping your alkalinity balanced helps to keep your pH levels optimal when additional acids or bases are introduced to the water. You want your pool’s alkalinity to be between 80 to 150 parts per million (PPM).

Pool Water Calcium Hardness Levels

Your pool has dissolved calcium salts in its water. These can increase or decrease from the oils and salts on people’s skin, from debris that falls into your pool, and from the chemical reactions that form from maintaining your water balance. You want to keep these levels around 250 ppm. If the calcium level is too low, it can create pitting in the plaster, while high amounts of calcium make the water cloudy and can result in scaling.

TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) in Your Swimming Pool

When a pool has been in use for a long time, things like suntan lotion, chlorides, dirt, debris, algaecides, and other contaminants can be introduced into the water from leaves, tree bark, dirt, skin chemistry, and other factors. TDS can’t be avoided, but it should be kept under 450 ppm.

Pool Chlorine Levels

Chlorine is, for many people, a vital part of keeping the chemistry in their water properly balanced. Too much chlorine, and you’ll end up with burning in the eyes and a strong odor. Too little, and the pool’s alkalinity and pH will be out of control, leading to things like cloudy water and algae growth. Ideal chlorine levels should be at 0.2ppm or less, and free chlorine should be in the range of 1 to 3 ppm.

If you are looking for the best professionals to maintain your pool, turn to All Seasons Pools for fast, friendly, and reliable advice. We build pools so we know pools.

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.

The post What Affects My Swimming Pool Water Chemistry? appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Check the Swimming Pool Water Levels

Your water level should be halfway up the tile or around the middle of your skimmer opening. If you need to top your water off, get that garden hose working and fill up your pool.

Test the Chemistry of Your Pool

Run the circulation system for 24 hours or so before you test the chemistry of your pool. Your pool should be within the following ranges:

• Total Alkalinity (TA) – 80 to 120ppm
• pH – 7.4 to 7.6
• Chlorine – 2.0 to 4.0ppm

Adjust Your Chemistry as Necessary

You can largely control the levels of pH and chlorine in your pool by first adjusting its TA.

• If your TA is too high, you can use dry acid (sodium bisulfate) to reduce levels to an acceptable range
• If your TA is too low, you can use sodium bicarbonate to increase it

You should wait at least 4 hours (or however it is otherwise recommended on the packaging label) after adding to retest your pool water.

Tackle the pH Balance and Calcium Hardness

When your TA is between 80 to 120ppm, you can begin adjusting your pH levels as necessary.

• If your pH is above 7.6, try adding dry acid (sodium bisulfate) or muriatic acid
• If your pH is below 7.2 use soda ash to bring it back to acceptable levels

Wait at least 4 hours for the pH level to settle. You can then test and adjust your calcium hardness so that it is above 150ppm. Calcium chloride can be used to increase the calcium hardness which will prevent pitting in your concrete, plaster and pebble tec.

Brush, Vacuum, and Filter

Once the chemistry has been adjusted, give your pool walls, floor, steps, ladders and other equipment a good brush down. Re-attach any other items which you may have removed (such as slides, basketball hoops, etc.). Vacuum the pool and run your filtration system overnight to eliminate any dirt, bacteria, debris and algae that may still be present.

Shock Your Pool

Whenever you add chlorine to your pool water, the chlorine molecules naturally attach themselves to algae, debris and other unwanted material. This forms what is known as a chloramine.

This “dead chlorine” should be removed from your pool. This is why it is usually recommended that you shock your pool before it really starts to heat up so your swimming pool will be ready for increased usage.

Follow these pool ownership tips to get your spring off to a good start. The better you take care of your pool now, the less maintenance and service you’ll need later.

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.

The post Start Your Filters! Spring is Here! appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

The Swimming Pool Construction Process is Long

You might have heard horror stories about pools taking forever to be built, but these exceptions are very far from the rule. The truth is that the swimming pool construction process usually takes less than a few months, all the way from design to completion. When you think about all that goes into building a swimming pool and making sure it’s all done right, that’s really not long at all. Especially when you end up with a beautiful backyard that will bring your family years of fun and relaxation.   

Swimming Pool Maintenance is a Hassle

Yes, pools do require a minimum level of maintenance in order to keep things clean and running properly, but it certainly is not as time-consuming as some would lead you to believe. In fact, there’s hardly any more maintenance needed for a swimming pool than a well-cared-for front lawn. Dedicating just a few minutes of your day to care for your pool will keep it sparkling clean and efficient all year round. Plus, new swimming pool equipment is making owning a pool even easier. With some systems, you can do almost everything from your smartphone!

Swimming Pools Are Too Expensive

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about owning a pool is that they can’t afford one. While inground pools are not cheap, there are many payment options you can choose from in order to afford the pool of your dreams. Reputable pool builders will also work with you to make sure you stay within your budget. Plus, with the value you get in return, swimming pools are relatively inexpensive compared to other big ticket purchases. Additionally, swimming pools can add to the value of your home. So when it is time for you to move, you can list your home for a higher asking price and get a solid return on investment.

Swimming Pools Mean High Utility Bills

When you start with an efficient swimming pool and maintain it properly, your utility bills should not increase significantly. And like everything else, swimming pool equipment is becoming more and more energy-efficient, meaning you’ll see even less of an increase than people who own pools now.

There’s Too Much Repair Work Involved

When your swimming pool is well-constructed using high quality materials, repair work will be few and far between. And when you choose a pool builder that’s been around for a long time and stands by their work, if any repairs are ever needed it will be no hassle to you whatsoever.

Owning a pool is easy and affordable. A high quality builder will help you stay within your budget while giving you the most for your money. They will also be there every step of the way for any questions you have and to assist wherever needed. At All Seasons Pools, we put our customers first and will always be dedicated to your complete satisfaction throughout your entire pool ownership experience.

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.

The post Everything You Heard About Owning a Pool is Wrong appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

•         Do Not Empty Your Pool

People may ask, “Won’t the pool overflow if we don’t, at least, lower the water?” Yes it may, but no more so than if a patio or a plot of grass was there instead. Adequate drainage has most always been provided for in the design of the pool. Keeping the water in the pool provides the important weight to hold the pool in the ground. An empty pool is subject to “floating” or “popping” out of the ground due to “lift” pressure from excessive ground water caused by the heavy rains that may accompany the storm. You may lower the water level to the bottom of the skimmer opening.

•         Turn off Electric Power to Swimming Pool Equipment

Allow the filtration system to operate as long as possible. Circuit breakers at the main electrical panel may be turned off to prevent automation controls, pump motors, lighting, chlorinators, and heaters from possibly sustaining damage from power surges. Restore breakers to the on position as soon as possible after the storm. If you’ve lost power, wait until power has been restored before turning pool system breakers on.

•         Remove all Loose Items from the Pool Area

Loose objects such as chairs, tables, toys and pool tools which can become dangerous projectiles in high winds should be stored inside of buildings. It’s not advisable to throw metal patio furniture into the pool unless it is a last resort. If it is necessary to do so, gently place these items into the pool to prevent possible damage to the interior finish and remove as soon as possible to avoid staining. Plastic patio furniture may be placed in the pool. Any damage caused by objects placed in the pool will not be covered under warranty.

After the Storm

•         As Before the Storm, Do Not Empty the Pool

An empty pool is subject to “floating” or “popping” out of the ground due to “lift” pressure from excessive ground water caused by heavy rains that may have accompanied the storm. If it appears necessary to drain the pool due to excessive debris and/or damage, you should seek professional advice.

•         Remove Debris from Pool First

Remove large objects by hand and use a “pool rake” or “skimmer net” to remove smaller debris from the pool. Do not attempt to use the pool’s vacuum system for debris that is likely to plug the plumbing.

•         Check Electrical Equipment Before Restarting System

If these devices have been exposed to flooding water, they should be checked by a licensed professional. Then turn on electricity, prime the filter system, and check for normal operation.

•         Operate the Filter Equipment

If necessary, run the system 24 hours a day. When the water has attained proper clarity then reset the time clock for a normal daily cycle. If we are caring for your pool, please make sure the system is operating after the storm.

•         Balance the Pool Water Chemistry

Readjust the pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness and conditioner levels and continue to check them carefully over several days.

•         Monitor the Pool Operation

It is important to monitor the overall operation of the entire system for several days after the storm to be sure everything is operating properly.

•         All Seasons Pools Service & New Construction

If we are caring for your pool or your pool is in the construction process, we will provide service as soon as possible.

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.

The post All Seasons Pools – Hurricane Preparedness appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

Helping Keep Jacksonville, FL Pools Clean

Wondering why your pool water may be cloudy or taken on a sickly greenish hue? More likely than not it is because the pool chemistry is out of whack.  Fortunately, you do not need to be a chemist to keep your pool water pristine with these simple pool maintenance tips. 

Get The Size Right

Before you start adding chemicals to your pool water, make sure you have a good estimate of your pool’s size.

• Rectangular – Length x Width x Average Depth x 7.5
• Circular –  Diameter (vertical) x Diameter (horizontal) x Average Depth x 5.9
• Oval – Long diameter x Short Diameter x Average Depth x 5.9
• Freeform – Surface (square footage) x Average Depth x 7.5

Test Your Pool Water Regularly

During regular usage periods you can likely get away with testing your pool water once a week, but during heavy usage periods, test it at least twice a week for:

• pH
• Free chlorine and combined chlorine
• Total Alkalinity
• Calcium hardness

Cyanuric Acid should be tested once a month.

Know When Adjustments Are Needed

Knowing when you need to adjust the chemicals in your water is vital in ensuring that it stays crystal clear.

• Sanitizing (chlorine granules or tablets) – Add as necessary to maintain 1-4 ppm
• pH – Ideally this should be between 7.4 and 7.6
• Alkalinity – The alkalinity should be somewhere between 100 and 120 ppm
• Cyanuric Acid – This chlorine stabilizer should be between the 20 and 30 ppm range

Daily Pool Maintenance

Every day take time to remove debris and leaves from the skimmer basket and from the pump trap basket.  If there are any bugs or leaves floating on top of the water, scoop them out with a hand-held pool skimmer.

Keep It Covered

Using a pool cover will go a long way in keeping debris, rain water and other unwelcome hosts from invading your pool.  On even the rainiest and windiest of days, a good quality pool cover will be able to keep out most foreign contaminants

Following these quick and simple pool maintenance tips will keep your pool water looking clear blue and allow you more time to enjoy fun and relaxation!

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.le +.

The post Pool Maintenance Tips For Better Water Quality appeared first on All Seasons Pools.

All Seasons Pools, your Jacksonville pool company, wants to stress just how easy it is to get your pool in working order. Even if you’ve been discouraged in the past, we can help you get control of your pool and really turn it into the space of your dreams. Let’s start by teaching you how to prepare a pool for summer swimming and fun.

Clean Out All Leaves and Other Debris

Before you can open your pool for the summer, you’ll need to get rid of all the debris that have accumulated in the water over the last few months of disuse. The same goes for any kind of buildup that may have occurred around the edges of the pool. You’ll also want to clean off the pool cover, if you have one, as well as the surrounding deck and patio. The important thing here is to be thorough, as a clean pool is not only beautiful, but it is also safe.

Clean and Store Your Pool Cover

If you’re new to figuring out how to prepare a pool for summer, odds are you don’t have a pool cover. Buy one immediately. Not only can these keep debris from getting into your pool, but they can even potentially save you some money on your energy bills by helping to naturally regulate the temperature of your pool’s water. They’re also relatively cheap, so buying one should be a no-brainer. Just keep in mind that if you do have a pool cover already, you’ll want to clean it thoroughly and let it dry completely before storing it away.

Check Fixtures and Water Levels

After the pool has been cleaned, you’ll want to make sure any special fixtures in your pool are still structurally sound. This means you need to walk around the pool and test all ladders, steps, rails, diving boards, etc. to find any loose nuts and bolts or other signs of potential future concern. As long as you’re diligent, your pool’s fixtures should be fine.

According to what kind of pool pump you have, you may need to also adjust your pool’s water levels. Check with your pool pump guide, or a representative at All Seasons Pools, a Jacksonville pool company, to make sure your water levels are compliant.

Make Sure You Have the Right Pump

Along these same lines, you should make sure you even have the right pool pump to begin with. The type of pump you need, however, will change based on the size, shape, and type of pool you happen to own, though we tend to recommend Jandy pool pumps for most homeowners. It deserves emphasizing that, when learning how to open a pool for summer, especially if for the first time, it’s always best to get an opinion from a trained professional to make sure your pool equipment is appropriate and is in 100 percent working condition.

Check Your Chemical Levels

Before testing your chemical levels, you’ll want to start up the pump and let it run uninterrupted for about eight to 12 hours. After this time has passed, check the pH levels in your pool. The optimal pH level is 7.4, which is the same pH level of our eyes. However, anything between about 7.2-7.8 should be good enough. Add the proper chemicals to the water until you’ve balanced your pH accordingly.

Let All Seasons Pools Help You Out Today!

By following these few simple steps, your pool should be up and running in no time at all. Problems may still persist, however, or you may have some additional questions on how to prepare a pool for summer. If so, please feel free to contact a representative here at All Seasons Pools to learn more.

Your Jacksonville Pool Company

We would also like to take this opportunity to personally invite you our Summer Beat the Heat Cookout on Saturday, May 21 at our Sanford Office, starting at 10:00 a.m. We’ll have those from the WDBO 96.5 radio station on site promoting the event, so definitely come out and enjoy some free food, games, prizes, and the best values you’ll find this year on a new pool.

Additionally, for every pool sold, $500 goes to the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. Buyers will also get the opportunity to choose up to three free pool accessories from a wide range of items to go with the new pool purchase. These items include:

• Salt System
• Ozone System
• Ultraviolet Sanitizing System
• Melody Soundcast Music System
• LED Bubbler
• LED Waterfall
• LED Light
• MX6 Pool Cleaner

We look forward to hearing from you soon, and hopefully you’ll be at our cookout on May 21!

About All Seasons Pools

All Seasons Pools has been a trusted pool expert for Orlando, St.Augustine, Jacksonville, The Villages and other Atlantic coast communities since 1979. Started by John and Diane Watts, they specialize in creating amazing and unique backyard retreats for families to enjoy, including top-of-the-line custom pools and amazing outdoor living areas. They work hard to fulfill their motto to “leave every customer with a smile.”

As members of the Association of Pool & Spa Professions and Florida Swimming Pool Association, they put a strong emphasis on being strong, reliable builders and staying up-to-date on the latest pool industry technology and design trends. Visit their swimming pool gallery to see pools ranging from signature and geometric designs to natural forms.

Are you ready to get started on your Florida backyard getaway? Design your pool with our interactive guide and schedule your free consultation today!

For more pool maintenance and outdoor living tips, you can subscribe to All Seasons Pools’ blog and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google +.

The post How to Prepare Your Pool for the Summer appeared first on All Seasons Pools.